If your 2023 Ford Bronco Sport is displaying a P0305 code indicating a cylinder 5 misfire, this code requires diagnostic investigation. The 2023 Bronco Sport continues with only three-cylinder and four-cylinder engine options: the 1.5L EcoBoost three-cylinder and the 2.0L EcoBoost four-cylinder. Since neither engine has a cylinder 5, this code is technically anomalous.
2023 Bronco Sport Powertrain
The 2023 Bronco Sport offers the 1.5L EcoBoost I-3 (181 hp) on Base, Big Bend, and Outer Banks trims. The Badlands trim receives the 2.0L EcoBoost I-4 (250 hp) for enhanced off-road capability. No configuration exceeds four cylinders, so P0305 cannot represent an actual cylinder 5 misfire.
Important Distinction
The Bronco Sport is Ford's compact crossover based on the Escape platform. The larger body-on-frame Ford Bronco (without "Sport" in the name) offers a 2.7L V6 where P0305 would be valid. Verify which vehicle you have before proceeding.
Possible Causes for Erroneous Code
ECM software glitches can occasionally store invalid codes. Scan tool communication errors may misread data. Low 12-volt battery voltage affects computer reliability. Diagnostic equipment compatibility issues with Ford's electronics could produce erroneous readings.
Diagnostic Steps
Verify which engine is installed (check trim level—Badlands has the 2.0L, others have 1.5L). Use a Ford-compatible scan tool to confirm stored codes. Check battery condition. If actual misfire symptoms exist, diagnose the cylinders present (1-3 or 1-4). Clear the erroneous code and monitor for return.